Who Should Get a Bone Scan?
If you’re 50+, approaching menopause, or have risk factors for bone loss, a REMS (Echolight) scan can give you a clear, radiation-free assessment of bone status—so you can make smarter decisions earlier.
Most people don’t “feel” bone loss—until something breaks
Bone loss can progress quietly for years. A scan helps you understand where you stand now, and what to do next—whether that means monitoring, lifestyle upgrades, medical follow-up, or a prevention plan.
REMS may be especially helpful if…
You want a radiation-free assessment
You are tracking progress and want repeatable follow-up over time
You have known or suspected spine degeneration/arthritis, where spine readings on traditional testing may be harder to interpret
You want an assessment designed to support risk insight, not just a single number
How often should you re-scan?
Most people benefit from rechecking based on risk level and goals:
Higher risk / active intervention: every 6–12 months
Moderate risk / monitoring: every 12–24 months
Lower risk / baseline tracking: every 18–24 months
We’ll help you choose a sensible interval based on your situation and what you’re trying to achieve.
Not ready to book yet?
Call us with questions: 562-445-3241
Or visit: What to Expect | FAQs
You should strongly consider a scan if…
✅ Women approaching or post-menopause
✅ Men over 50
✅ Family history of osteoporosis or fragility fractures
✅ Prior fracture from a minor fall (or “mystery” fracture)
✅ Long-term steroid use (e.g., prednisone)
✅ Thyroid/parathyroid conditions, or other endocrine concerns
✅ Low body weight, frailty, or rapid unintentional weight loss
✅ Nutrient absorption or GI issues (e.g., chronic reflux meds, celiac, bariatric history)
✅ You want to monitor change over time and don’t want repeated radiation exposure
(If you’re not sure you “qualify,” that’s usually a sign you should get clarity.)
When to talk to your physician first
If any of the following apply, it’s smart to involve your healthcare provider as part of your next step:
Recent major trauma fracture
Severe or rapidly worsening back pain
Unexplained weight loss, night sweats, fevers
New neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness, loss of bowel/bladder control)
Known metabolic bone disease (beyond osteoporosis/osteopenia)
A REMS scan can still be useful—but these situations deserve medical coordination.
What you’ll get from SonoHealth CA
A calm, professional appointment
A clear results discussion in plain English
Practical next-step guidance you can take to your physician or use to shape your plan